Welcome back to Two-Cent Review. This week I'll be taking a look at the August
issue of Previews for comics scheduled to ship in October. This isn't
a comprehensive list of all the cool books coming out. These are just some
of the highlights and books that I think are noteworthy. Here is my two cents
worth:

Book Of The Month

If you can only by one book this month, this
should be it!

Global Frequency #1 (DC Comics/Wildstorm, $2.95)

I find it hard to express how excited I am about this project. This is Ellis'
first major offering since he went exclusive with DC, and he doesn't seem to
be holding anything back. Sure to be filled with edge of your seat action and
all the other things Ellis does so well, you really shouldn't miss this book.

DC Comics

Batman #608 (DC Comics, $2.25)

With all his responsibilities as Wildstorm's Editorial Director, who would
believe we would ever see this? Well, rejoice! Jim Lee is on art duties for
an entire year of Batman! The new creative team of Jeph Loeb and Jim
Lee start what is sure to be one of the most exciting runs on the series, ever.

Green Arrow #18 (DC Comics, $2.50)

I thoroughly enjoyed Kevin Smith's run on this book. But I am even more excited
to see what best-selling author Brad Meltzer has in store. The guy clearly
has a great love and respect for comics, and I think that will really shine
through in his work. Meltzer's run starts this August, so if you aren't reading
this book, it would be a great time to start. Plus, this issue has Solomon Grundy!

Y : The Last Man #4 (DC Comics/Vertigo, $2.95)

After reading the first issue of this series, I think this book could be Vertigo's
next major hit. Y tells the story of Yorick Brown, the last man on earth.
Brian K. Vaughn's script for the first issue was smart, funny, thoughtful and
engaging. You will be kicking yourself later if you miss out on this great series
in the making.

Image Comics

Paradigm #2(Image Comics, $3.50)

I missed out on the first issue of this series when another publisher released
it. But, come September, it is being republished through Image. I'm not entirely
sure what it is all about, but the art that I have seen looks great, and the
creators seem to be pouring that heart and soul into it. This might be a book
to keep your eye on.

Marvel Comics

Alias #15 (Marvel Comics/Max Comics, $2.99)

This book is sort of the flagship of the Max line and some of Brian Michael
Bendis' most intriguing work. Jessica Jones is one of the most engaging and
"human" characters in comics. Each issue makes me like her more and
more. You really can never tell where Bendis is going to take her next.

Killraven # 1 of 6 (Marvel Comics, $2.99)

Alan Davis gets all the blame. Sure, I had read a G.I. Joe comic here
and there, but it wasn't until I saw the cover to Excalibur #1 that I
was hooked on comics. I just love this guy's art! This mini-series should be
a blast.

Avengers #59 (Marvel Comics, $2.25)

With August's issue #57, Geoff Johns becomes the new regular writer of this
book. While Kurt Busiek will be a tough act to follow, I have complete faith
in John's 'ability. After all, he already writes one of the best team books
around (JSA) for the distinguished competition.

Black Panther #50 (Marvel Comics, $2.50)

I've just recently gotten into this book, and here they go and change things. A
new art team, a new storyline, a new Black Panther (?)—but the same great
writer. This should be a great time to give this title a try.

Arcade Comics

Youngblood: Bloodsport #1

I'm really torn on weather to get this book or not. On the one hand, Mark Miller
(The Ultimates and Ultimate X-Men) is writing it. But (and that
is a big "but") Rob Liefeld is drawing it. This is strictly your own
call.

Crossgen Comics

The Path Vol. 1: Crisis Of Faith

Sojourn Vol. 2: Dragon's Tale

I've been impressed with some of the other trades I've picked up from Crossgen,
and, with their beautiful art, these books should make a welcome addition to
the library.

Well, those are some of my recommendations for this month. Now go out, get
yourself a copy of Previews, and tell your retailer what you want. If you would
like to express your opinion, recommend something, or just talk about comics,
I can be reached at meclll@yahoo.com.